The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding swift action to protect healthcare workers amid a surge in attacks on medical personnel nationwide.
This ultimatum was announced at the conclusion of NARD’s Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held in Kano, during which the association also declared an industrial dispute with the government over 14 unresolved issues affecting the health sector.
NARD President Mohammad Suleiman highlighted the alarming rise in cases of assault, intimidation, harassment, and violent attacks against doctors, describing the situation as “barbaric, unacceptable, and a dangerous threat” to Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system. The OGM expressed grave concern over the safety of doctors carrying out their professional duties and emphasized the urgent need for protective measures.
Key among the association’s demands is the immediate investigation, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible for attacks on healthcare workers. NARD also called on the government and security agencies to bolster protection for medical personnel and healthcare facilities across the country. The association urged the Federal Government to, within 21 days, begin developing and implementing a National Healthcare Workers Assault Prevention and Response Protocol, as well as initiate the necessary legislative process to address violence against health workers.
Additionally, NARD demanded the release and payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to all eligible resident doctors within the 21-day window, noting that the fund remains unpaid despite repeated assurances. Other demands include settlement of outstanding 25/35% CONMESS arrears, clearance of 19 months of unpaid professional allowance arrears, and prompt payment of salary and promotion arrears across federal and state health institutions. The association also called for the correction of discrepancies in professional allowance payments made in May 2026 and the resolution of all related arrears.
Raising further concerns, NARD highlighted deteriorating welfare conditions for house officers, salary delays, unpaid arrears, and challenges with internship placement and onboarding. The association demanded full implementation of outstanding provisions in the Medical and Health Workers’ Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and advocated for action on excessive workloads, prolonged call-duty hours, the casualisation of doctors, and exploitative locum appointments.
Suleiman criticized delays by the Federal Character Commission (FCC) in issuing compliance letters, warning that such bureaucratic bottlenecks have stalled recruitment and worsened manpower shortages. The OGM called for the FCC to issue the required compliance letter within 21 days to facilitate the employment of healthcare workers and help stem the brain drain crisis.
NARD also urged federal and state tertiary health institutions to address pressing issues related to welfare, remuneration, infrastructure, and staffing. The association specifically cited unresolved disputes at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), including the provision of call meals and alleged victimisation of doctors.
While commending the governors of Osun and Kano states for their interventions in the health sector, NARD warned that failure to meet its demands could result in further industrial action. The association’s National Officers Committee will engage stakeholders during the ultimatum period, at the end of which NARD’s National Executive Council will determine the next steps if the government fails to act.
